Last Updated:

January 14th, 2025

Mental Health and Addiction | Links & Treatment

Mental health is a term that gets used a lot these days, especially as the taboo has been lifted on talking about or addressing mental health issues over the past decade. But what does it mean?

Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act in our daily lives. It also influences how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.

Think of mental health like a puppy or a baby. Just as these little ones need regular care, attention and love to grow and thrive, so does our mental health. It requires consistent nurturing. This can be through simple daily habits like practising mindfulness, connecting with loved ones, getting enough sleep and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfilment.

Good mental health allows us to navigate challenges with resilience and grace. It means having a positive sense of self, managing emotions and maintaining fulfilling relationships. It’s the foundation for a balanced and satisfying life, enabling us to enjoy the present while being prepared for the future.

What happens when we have poor mental health?

Having poor mental health doesn’t make you a bad person. However, you have reached the point of poor mental health; whatever the reason, know that many conditions are treatable, and some can even be reversed. So, what does it look like when someone has poor mental health?

Poor mental health can manifest in many ways, and it can be different for everyone. Some common signs and symptoms include:

Persistent sadness or low mood
Withdrawal from activities once enjoyed
Changes in sleep patterns
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability or mood swings
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Physical symptoms, such as experiencing unexplained aches and pains, headaches or digestive issues.
Anxiety or excessive worry
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, and it’s important to recognise that there are many different mental health issues someone can experience. For example, conditions like depression, anxiety disorders and bipolar disorder each have their own unique set of symptoms.

Why is it so important to get help for mental health issues?

When dealing with mental health issues, many people convince themselves that what they’re experiencing “isn’t a big deal” or that they can manage the situation on their own. The reality is that no matter how small or big you perceive your mental health issue to be, it needs to be treated. There are many reasons for the argument of getting mental health issues treated, and one of the biggest reasons is the link between mental health disorders and addiction.

When someone has a mental health disorder, they might also face challenges with substance use, a situation known as a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder. It’s common for people dealing with mental health issues to use substances as a way to manage their symptoms, and sometimes, those struggling with addiction may develop mental health issues as well. Genetics, brain chemistry and environmental factors like trauma and stress can significantly influence both mental health disorders and addiction.

To learn more about various mental health disorders and how addictions can impact them, explore the following dual diagnoses:

ADHD and Addiction

Characterised by impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. Individuals with ADHD may struggle with daily tasks and relationships. This can lead to increased stress and potential co-occurring conditions, including addiction, as they might seek substances to manage symptoms.
ADHD and Addiction

Anger Management and Addiction

Anger management issues involve difficulty controlling emotions and frequent outbursts. These challenges can strain personal and professional relationships, leading to further emotional distress.
Anger Management and Addiction

Anxiety and Addiction

Anxiety disorders cause excessive fear and worry, impacting daily life and functioning. This persistent anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviours and physical symptoms. To cope, some individuals might use substances to alleviate their anxiety, potentially leading to addiction.
Anxiety and Addiction

Autism and Addiction

Autism spectrum disorder affects social interaction, communication and behaviour. Individuals with autism may experience heightened sensory sensitivities and social challenges. These difficulties can sometimes lead to the use of substances as a coping mechanism, increasing the risk of addiction. Click below to learn more.
Autism and Addiction

BDD and Addiction

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) involves an obsessive focus on perceived flaws in appearance, causing significant distress and impairment. This obsession can lead to behaviours aimed at hiding or fixing these flaws. To cope with the distress, some may turn to substances, increasing the risk of addiction.
BDD and Addiction

Bipolar and Addiction

Bipolar disorder is marked by extreme mood swings, including manic and depressive episodes. These fluctuations can disrupt daily life and relationships. Individuals may use substances to manage these intense emotions, which can increase the likelihood of developing an addiction. Click the button below to learn more.
Bipolar and Addiction

Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterised by emotional instability, fear of abandonment and impulsive behaviour. These symptoms can lead to tumultuous relationships and self-destructive actions. Click the button to learn more.
Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction

Codependency and Addiction

Codependency involves excessive emotional or psychological reliance on a partner, often leading to dysfunctional relationship dynamics. This reliance can cause significant stress and emotional pain, prompting individuals to use substances to cope, which can lead to addiction.
Codependency and Addiction

Depression and Addiction

Depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a lack of interest in activities. This condition can severely impact daily functioning and quality of life. Some individuals may turn to substances for temporary relief from depressive symptoms, which can result in addiction.
Depression and Addiction

Grief and Addiction

Grief is the intense sorrow and emotional pain following a significant loss. This emotional state can be overwhelming and difficult to manage. In an attempt to numb the pain, some individuals may turn to substances, which can lead to the development of an addiction.
Grief and Addiction

Insomnia and Addiction

Insomnia is the chronic inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to daytime fatigue and cognitive impairment. This condition can cause significant distress and impact daily functioning. Some may use substances to induce sleep, increasing the risk of developing an addiction.
Insomnia and Addiction

OCD and Addiction

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is marked by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours. These symptoms can cause significant anxiety and disruption. To manage their symptoms, individuals with OCD may turn to substances, which can lead to addiction over time.
OCD and Addiction

PTSD and Addiction

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) involves intrusive memories, flashbacks and severe anxiety following a traumatic event. These symptoms can be debilitating and interfere with daily life. Some individuals with PTSD may use substances to cope with their distress, increasing the risk of addiction. Click the button for more.
PTSD and Addiction

Schizophrenia and Addiction

Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder characterised by hallucinations, delusions and disorganised thinking. These symptoms can be profoundly disruptive. Individuals may use substances to manage their symptoms, which can lead to the development of addiction.
Schizophrenia and Addiction

Self-Harm and Addiction

Self-harm involves deliberate injury to oneself as a way to cope with emotional pain. This behaviour is often linked to underlying mental health issues. To numb the emotional distress, some individuals may turn to substances, which can result in addiction. Click on the button below if you would like to learn more.
Self-Harm and Addiction

Stress and Addiction

Chronic stress can lead to physical and mental health issues, impacting daily functioning and well-being. To manage stress, some individuals may use substances to relax or escape their stressors, which can increase the risk of developing an addiction. Click the button below to learn more.
Stress and Addiction

Suicide and Addiction

Suicidal thoughts often arise from severe emotional distress and a sense of hopelessness. This mental state can lead to using substances as a coping mechanism. The temporary relief provided by substances can increase the risk of addiction, further complicating mental health issues.
Suicide and Addiction

How are co-occurring addiction and mental health issues treated?

At Linwood House, we specialise in treating co-occurring addiction and mental health issues with a holistic and integrated approach. Our strategies, designed primarily for addiction, are also effective in addressing mental health concerns. Here’s how we can help:

Detox

For those with addictions that require it, a full medically monitored detox will take place. Staff are on hand 24/7 to make the process as smooth and as comfortable as possible.

Therapy

At Linwood House, we understand that addiction often goes hand-in-hand with mental health challenges. While we don’t offer rehab programmes specifically targeting mental health issues, many of the therapies we use for addiction can significantly benefit mental well-being. Here’s a look at some of the key therapies we offer:

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): DBT focuses on teaching skills like mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills are invaluable for those struggling with addiction and can significantly improve overall emotional stability and mental health.

Holistic therapies: We offer various holistic therapies such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy. These practices promote relaxation, self-awareness, and emotional expression, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

What are the next steps?

At Linwood House, our expertise in addiction treatment extends to providing effective care for mental health issues, offering you a path to comprehensive recovery and well-being. If you or a person you love is dealing with addiction alongside mental health issues, know that Linwood House is here to help.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get treated for my addiction if I am suffering from a mental illness?

Yes, you can receive treatment for both addiction and mental illness simultaneously, as dual diagnosis programmes address both issues for effective recovery.

Is addiction itself a mental health condition?

Yes, addiction is classified as a mental health condition, as it involves compulsive behaviours and can significantly impact emotional and psychological well-being.

Does UKAT have any facilities that provide specialised mental health treatment?

All UKAT rehab centres address co-occurring mental health issues alongside addiction. However, our UKAT London Clinic stands out as a specialised mental health facility dedicated to ensuring that all mental health concerns are thoroughly addressed.